Terps to bring back names on the back of football jerseys

COLLEGE PARK — When all of the variations of Maryland's new football uniforms were unveiled last year, they were nearly as conspicuous for what didn't appear on the jerseys as what did.

Gone were players' names on the back of the jerseys — a decision that figured prominently in what might be called the "Maryland Makeover." It was part of an updating of the football program's uniforms and field markings.

But coach Randy Edsall confirmed after practice Tuesday that the names on the jerseys are returning, and he explained the program's thinking about the change.

"It's a traditional look," Edsall said after the Terps completed their second practice of August training camp. "And so what we decided to do with that traditional look is just to have the names on the back of the jerseys. We're still going to have the 'Pride' uniforms where we won't have the names on the back of the jerseys."

Everyone — presumably even LeBron James — remembers the "Pride" uniforms. Those are the garish ones invoking the Maryland state flag. When he saw them on television during last season's opener, the Miami Heat star tweeted: "OH GOSH! Maryland uniforms #Ewwwww!"

Maryland has not yet disclosed which uniforms will be worn for which games. The team opens the season Sept. 1 against William & Mary.

DL Evans departing

Defensive lineman Ian Evans, a redshirt sophomore from New Jersey, is leaving the university, Edsall said.

Evans was a reserve defensive end who appeared in the final four games last season. He was listed fourth on this season's depth chart at one of the end spots.

"Ian came to see me today and he's decided to leave the university due to some personal reasons that he has," Edsall said. "I just wished him well and hoped that he gets all those things resolved and taken care of."

Tight ends impressing

Tight end has emerged as one of the Terps' deepest positions. Among those making big plays during Tuesday's practice was senior Matt Furstenburg, who made a juggling catch deep down the field.

Furstenburg had 31 catches last seasons.

"We have three guys there [at tight end] in Matt Furstenburg, Devonte Campbell, and Ryan Schlothauer who have played," Edsall said.

Tate happy to be back

Among the players happiest to be on the field this week is senior linebacker Kenny Tate, who suffered a season-ending knee injury last season.

Tate, a team captain last season, missed all but four games and obtained a medical redshirt.

"I was just ready to get back," Tate said. "Get me on the field. I'm full go."